SafeSpace.

In this episode, Dr. Mariam Pereira and Dr. Melany McKenna delve into the pervasive issue of imposter syndrome among healthcare professionals. They share personal experiences and insights, highlighting how the pressures of medical training and the high expectations within the healthcare field can lead to feelings of inadequacy and self-doubt. The discussion emphasizes the importance of self-compassion, the value of seeking support from colleagues, and the need for a compassionate workplace culture that encourages open communication and learning from mistakes.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Many healthcare professionals, including doctors and psychologists, experience imposter syndrome, which involves doubting their accomplishments and fearing being exposed as a fraud despite evidence of their competence.

• Practicing self-compassion is crucial when dealing with imposter syndrome. Acknowledging the critical voice without harsh self-judgment can help individuals respond more kindly to their feelings of inadequacy.

• Building a supportive team culture where colleagues feel safe to share their experiences and mistakes can help mitigate the effects of imposter syndrome.

• Establishing Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Realistic, and Time-scaled goals can help healthcare professionals manage their workload and reduce feelings of overwhelm, making it easier to track progress and celebrate achievements.

• It's essential to remember that healthcare professionals are human and can make mistakes. Acknowledging this humanity can help reduce the stigma around discussing mental health and the challenges faced in the profession.

BEST MOMENTS

"I personally felt like I was going to fail every year and had a miserable time of it and really struggled with feeling like I was good enough."

"I wonder whether there's something in that that then means that even when we're really successful or we're doing a really good job, that it's just never quite good enough in our minds for that little imposter voice."

"I think the doctor population is just such an intelligent and experienced and skilled profession, full of the best of the best."

"It's about promoting safety, feeling safe in that culture, and feeling safe to speak out about anything that might be going wrong."

"I think it's really important to try and take positive criticism for what it is and use it to improve your skills or to improve the quality of the work that you put out."

HOST BIO

Mariam is a GP trainee in Wales passionate about improving our healthcare colleagues' wellbeing. She has experience on the Schwartz Round Steering group and as a facilitator for her health board, and she created and led the Balint Group Programme for Foundation Doctors in her hospital. These are regular spaces for healthcare professionals to speak about real issues that affect their well-being amongst colleagues to improve mutual support and camaraderie in the workplace. She also holds qualifications in Life Coaching and healthcare leadership and management. Whatever your reason for joining us on this podcast, we are glad you have taken the time. 

Dr Melany McKenna is a Clinical Psychologist, Cognitive Analytic Therapy practitioner, and Executive Coach. With a specialist interest in staff wellbeing, and supporting NHS professionals, Dr McKenna offers psychologically informed reflections, prompting us to consider staff wellbeing from a systemic perspective.

If you are having stressful days at work, leaving you feeling demotivated, and depleted, I'm hoping I can help here.

In this podcast episode, Melany guides listeners through a mindfulness meditation focused on enhancing awareness of the senses. Melany encourages participants to find a comfortable position and directs their attention to various aspects of their physical presence, including the sensations of their body, breathing, and the environment around them. The meditation culminates in a return to breath awareness, allowing participants to ground themselves before re-engaging with the world.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Begin by bringing awareness to your body, noticing how it feels in the chair, the sensations of your feet on the floor, and the texture of your clothing.

• Shift your attention through various senses—sound, smell, taste, and sight—encouraging a deeper awareness of your surroundings and internal sensations.

• Acknowledge that your mind may wander during the exercise, and gently but firmly bring your focus back to the present moment and the specific sense you are exploring.

• Pay attention to your breathing, noticing the sensations of air entering and leaving your body, and the temperature changes associated with each breath.

• After the meditation, take your time to transition back to the external world, allowing yourself to fully absorb the experience before moving on.

BEST MOMENTS

"Just notice how your feet feel on the floor. Notice your hands resting at your sides or on your thighs."

"When your mind wanders, gently but firmly bring it back to listening to any sounds that you can hear."

"Just really focus in on that sense of taste in your mouth."

"Just notice all around you, perhaps what looks way out beyond your immediate sight."

"Notice if the air feels cooler as you breathe it in, warmer as you breathe it out."

HOST BIO

Mariam is a GP trainee in Wales passionate about improving our healthcare colleagues' wellbeing. She has experience on the Schwartz Round Steering group and as a facilitator for her health board, and she created and led the Balint Group Programme for Foundation Doctors in her hospital. These are regular spaces for healthcare professionals to speak about real issues that affect their well-being amongst colleagues to improve mutual support and camaraderie in the workplace. She also holds qualifications in Life Coaching and healthcare leadership and management. Whatever your reason for joining us on this podcast, we are glad you have taken the time. 

Dr Melany McKenna is a Clinical Psychologist, Cognitive Analytic Therapy practitioner, and Executive Coach. With a specialist interest in staff wellbeing, and supporting NHS professionals, Dr McKenna offers psychologically informed reflections, prompting us to consider staff wellbeing from a systemic perspective.

If you are having stressful days at work, leaving you feeling demotivated, and depleted, I'm hoping I can help here.

PODCAST DESCRIPTION

SafeSpace is a new grounding and respite podcast aimed at Healthcare Professionals focused on staff wellbeing in the healthcare work environment, a grossly overlooked issue and yet, the cornerstone of the healthcare system which is why it is crumbling. There are 3 components to the podcast:  

- Candid interviews with healthcare leaders, and a wide variety of passionate healthcare professionals about their own experiences and struggles with their well-being as they have progressed through their careers  

- Reflective discussions with a clinical psychologist, my co-host, regarding key topics that have arisen such as coping with bullying, depression, burnout, grief, menopause, etc  

- Guided meditations specific to the healthcare worker getting ready for the day ahead, pausing during, winding down, and accepting following the working day.  

This podcast is not a panacea or substitute for a formal management plan, but a motivating, and catharsis tool to help during a stressful day.

In this episode, Mariam & Melany reflect on an insightful interview with Professor Partha Kar, focusing on key themes such as allyship, leadership, and well-being within the healthcare system. They discuss the importance of allyship in driving change, particularly for marginalised groups, and the systemic issues of racism and sexism that persist in the medical field. Mariam & Melany emphasise the significance of fostering a sense of belonging among colleagues and the necessity of taking time for self-care, including the importance of using annual leave to recharge.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• The discussion emphasises the significance of allyship in driving change, particularly for marginalised groups. Building relationships and connections with those who have privilege can help challenge injustices and create a more equitable society.

• There is a call for a shift towards compassionate leadership in healthcare, which involves not only good intentions but also actionable behaviours that prioritise the well-being of staff and patients.

• Many individuals in healthcare experience a toxic work environment where they fear reporting harassment or discrimination. This fear can lead to silence and perpetuate injustices.

• Building a sense of belonging among staff is crucial for retention. Initiatives such as social events for new employees and team-building activities can foster connections and improve workplace morale.

• The conversation stresses the importance of taking annual leave and allowing oneself to rest without guilt. Engaging in activities that provide relaxation, even if they seem trivial.

BEST MOMENTS

"If you've got power, if you've got privilege, use it as a positive to speak up and to speak out against injustices and biases."

"There are certain injustices that one inevitably experiences as you go about life and work in society."

"The NHS probably won't change until there's kind of new leaders emerging with younger staff coming through."

"Compassionate leadership involves behavior change. And that's not an easy thing to do."

"For a long time, there's been this notion... that NHS work is a vocation and that we can all burn ourselves at the altar to do the work."

HOST BIO

Mariam is a GP trainee in Wales passionate about improving our healthcare colleagues' wellbeing. She has experience on the Schwartz Round Steering group and as a facilitator for her health board, and she created and led the Balint Group Programme for Foundation Doctors in her hospital. These are regular spaces for healthcare professionals to speak about real issues that affect their well-being amongst colleagues to improve mutual support and camaraderie in the workplace. She also holds qualifications in Life Coaching and healthcare leadership and management. Whatever your reason for joining us on this podcast, we are glad you have taken the time. 

Dr Melany McKenna is a Clinical Psychologist, Cognitive Analytic Therapy practitioner, and Executive Coach. With a specialist interest in staff wellbeing, and supporting NHS professionals, Dr McKenna offers psychologically informed reflections, prompting us to consider staff wellbeing from a systemic perspective.

If you are having stressful days at work, leaving you feeling demotivated, and depleted, I'm hoping I can help here.

PODCAST DESCRIPTION

SafeSpace is a new grounding and respite podcast aimed at Healthcare Professionals focused on staff wellbeing in the healthcare work environment, a grossly overlooked issue and yet, the cornerstone of the healthcare system which is why it is crumbling. There are 3 components to the podcast:  

- Candid interviews with healthcare leaders, and a wide variety of passionate healthcare professionals about their own experiences and struggles with their well-being as they have progressed through their careers  

- Reflective discussions with a clinical psychologist, my co-host, regarding key topics that have arisen such as coping with bullying, depression, burnout, grief, menopause, etc  

- Guided meditations specific to the healthcare worker getting ready for the day ahead, pausing during, winding down, and accepting following the working day.  

This podcast is not a panacea or substitute for a formal management plan, but a motivating, and catharsis tool to help during a stressful day.

In this episode, Mariam engages in a thought-provoking conversation with Professor Partha Kar, a distinguished consultant in diabetes and endocrinology, and the National Specialty Advisor for Diabetes within NHS England. Professor Kar shares his inspiring journey from being an international medical graduate to a leading figure in diabetes care, discussing the transformative impact of continuous glucose monitoring systems on diabetes management. He elaborates on the Super 6 diabetes model, emphasizing the importance of integrated and collaborative care. Professor Kaur offers valuable insights on maintaining emotional well-being, the importance of work-life balance, and the necessity of creating safe spaces within healthcare institutions.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Continuous glucose monitoring systems represent a significant advancement in diabetes management, allowing patients to track their glucose levels in real time via their phones.

• The Super 6 diabetes model emphasizes integrated and collaborative care, focusing on six specialized areas within hospitals while promoting community-based support and education.

• Speaking out against inequalities in the healthcare system is crucial. Many individuals remain silent due to fear or complacency, but using one's privilege to advocate for change can help create a more equitable environment for all healthcare professionals.

• Maintaining a healthy work-life balance is essential for emotional well-being. Taking regular breaks, planning holidays, and surrounding oneself with supportive friends and family can help healthcare professionals manage stress and avoid burnout.

• Adversities and injustices faced throughout one's career can serve as valuable learning experiences. By reflecting on negative interactions and using them to inform future behavior, individuals can foster a more supportive and inclusive environment for others.

BEST MOMENTS

"The principle being that within a hospital we will do only six things that were super specialized... the rest of it was very much in the community whereby our presence would be virtual."

"Whenever you try and bring about change... there are different groups of people you meet... some people resist it, right? That's the four groups you always will deal with."

"I've always said that the biggest problem with inequalities... isn't the perpetrators. It's the people who keep quiet. That's the problem."

"It's really important that the difficulties and challenges that people who aren't cisgendered white men experience... are still perceived as valid."

"I think the change has to and will come from the generation of yourselves... I see a lot more people who are less afraid."

HOST BIO

Mariam is a GP trainee in Wales passionate about improving our healthcare colleagues' wellbeing. She has experience on the Schwartz Round Steering group and as a facilitator for her health board, and she created and led the Balint Group Programme for Foundation Doctors in her hospital. These are regular spaces for healthcare professionals to speak about real issues that affect their well-being amongst colleagues to improve mutual support and camaraderie in the workplace. She also holds qualifications in Life Coaching and healthcare leadership and management. Whatever your reason for joining us on this podcast, we are glad you have taken the time. 

Dr Melany McKenna is a Clinical Psychologist, Cognitive Analytic Therapy practitioner, and Executive Coach. With a specialist interest in staff wellbeing, and supporting NHS professionals, Dr McKenna offers psychologically informed reflections, prompting us to consider staff wellbeing from a systemic perspective.

If you are having stressful days at work, leaving you feeling demotivated, and depleted, I'm hoping I can help here.

PODCAST DESCRIPTION

SafeSpace is a new grounding and respite podcast aimed at Healthcare Professionals focused on staff wellbeing in the healthcare work environment, a grossly overlooked issue and yet, the cornerstone of the healthcare system which is why it is crumbling. There are 3 components to the podcast:  

- Candid interviews with healthcare leaders, and a wide variety of passionate healthcare professionals about their own experiences and struggles with their well-being as they have progressed through their careers  

- Reflective discussions with a clinical psychologist, my co-host, regarding key topics that have arisen such as coping with bullying, depression, burnout, grief, menopause, etc  

- Guided meditations specific to the healthcare worker getting ready for the day ahead, pausing during, winding down, and accepting following the working day.  

This podcast is not a panacea or substitute for a formal management plan, but a motivating, and catharsis tool to help during a stressful day.

In this episode, Melany a clinical psychologist, guides listeners through a meditation exercise known as "leaves on a stream." This practice focuses on cognitive diffusion, helping individuals learn to detach from their thoughts and experiences by observing them rather than getting caught up in them. Dr. McKenna encourages listeners to find a comfortable position, close their eyes, and visualize a gently flowing stream where they can place their thoughts, feelings, and sensations on leaves, allowing them to float by. Throughout the meditation, she emphasizes the importance of acknowledging and observing each experience without judgment, gently bringing the mind back to the stream whenever it wanders.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• The meditation exercise focuses on cognitive diffusion, which helps individuals detach from their thoughts and experiences, allowing them to observe rather than engage with them.
• Participants are guided to visualize a gently flowing stream and leave floating on it, representing their thoughts, feelings, and sensations. This imagery aids in the practice of letting go.
• The exercise encourages a non-judgmental approach to thoughts and feelings, suggesting that both positive and negative experiences should be placed on leaves and allowed to float by without resistance.
• It is normal for the mind to wander during the exercise. When this happens, individuals are reminded to gently bring their focus back to the visualization of the leaves on the stream.
• At the end of the meditation, participants are guided to gradually return to their surroundings, encouraging awareness of their physical sensations and the environment around them.

BEST MOMENTS

"This is a great exercise for practicing cognitive diffusion, which essentially means learning to detach from our thoughts and experiences and become an observer of them."

"Each time you notice a thought or a feeling or sensation, imagine placing it on a leaf letting it float down the stream."

"It is normal and natural to lose track of this exercise; your mind will wander."

"If a leaf gets stuck or won't go away, let it hang around for a little while, just observing the experience."

"When you notice yourself losing track, just gently bring yourself back to watching the leaves on the stream."

HOST BIO

Mariam is a GP trainee in Wales passionate about improving our healthcare colleagues' wellbeing. She has experience on the Schwartz Round Steering group and as a facilitator for her health board, and she created and led the Balint Group Programme for Foundation Doctors in her hospital. These are regular spaces for healthcare professionals to speak about real issues that affect their well-being amongst colleagues to improve mutual support and camaraderie in the workplace. She also holds qualifications in Life Coaching and healthcare leadership and management. Whatever your reason for joining us on this podcast, we are glad you have taken the time. 

Dr Melany McKenna is a Clinical Psychologist, Cognitive Analytic Therapy practitioner, and Executive Coach. With a specialist interest in staff wellbeing, and supporting NHS professionals, Dr McKenna offers psychologically informed reflections, prompting us to consider staff wellbeing from a systemic perspective.

If you are having stressful days at work, leaving you feeling demotivated, and depleted, I'm hoping I can help here.

PODCAST DESCRIPTION

SafeSpace is a new grounding and respite podcast aimed at Healthcare Professionals focused on staff wellbeing in the healthcare work environment, a grossly overlooked issue and yet, the cornerstone of the healthcare system which is why it is crumbling. There are 3 components to the podcast:  

- Candid interviews with healthcare leaders, and a wide variety of passionate healthcare professionals about their own experiences and struggles with their well-being as they have progressed through their careers  

- Reflective discussions with a clinical psychologist, my co-host, regarding key topics that have arisen such as coping with bullying, depression, burnout, grief, menopause, etc  

- Guided meditations specific to the healthcare worker getting ready for the day ahead, pausing during, winding down, and accepting following the working day.  

This podcast is not a panacea or substitute for a formal management plan, but a motivating, and catharsis tool to help during a stressful day.

In this episode, Mariam and Melany delve into a thought-provoking conversation inspired by an interview with Dr. Ian Happs, a retired GP from near Wrexham. They explore the evolving role of GPs from family physicians deeply embedded in their communities to primary care providers navigating a more mobile and diverse patient population. The discussion highlights the emotional toll of healthcare work, the importance of maintaining compassion, and the challenges of building lasting patient relationships in a fast-paced environment. Mariam and Melany reflect on the nostalgia, the impact of technology on patient interactions, and the complexities of balancing time constraints with the need for meaningful connections in healthcare.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• There is a strong sense of nostalgia for the traditional family physician role, where GPs had long-standing relationships with their patients, fostering a deep sense of community and continuity of care.
• The emotional toll of healthcare work can be significant, as healthcare professionals often carry the grief and pain of their patients, which can affect their well-being and ability to maintain compassion over time.
• The shift towards a primary care provider model has led to a more transactional relationship between doctors and patients, with time constraints and technology often hindering the quality of interactions and the building of rapport.
• Healthcare professionals may experience compassion fatigue, where prolonged exposure to the suffering of others leads to emotional burnout and a diminished capacity to empathize, highlighting the importance of self-care and support.
• In clinical psychology, the quality of the therapeutic relationship is crucial for effective treatment, and the common six-session model may not be sufficient for many patients, as building trust and rapport often requires more time.

BEST MOMENTS

"GPs had to stay within a five-mile radius of the community that they were looking after. So that's where I remained. I was an integral part of it."

"I do crave that time for when you knew the grandmother, you knew the mother, and you know the child, because you've lived with them."

"It's important to talk about it, it's important to communicate, share with colleagues... about how it's affecting you, sharing half the burden."

"When you're part of the fabric of the community that you're serving, these things are going to have an impact, and they're going to have an impact for a long time."

"I wish that maybe there was an understanding from patients that their stories affect us and that we do care."

HOST BIO

Mariam is a GP trainee in Wales passionate about improving our healthcare colleagues' wellbeing. She has experience on the Schwartz Round Steering group and as a facilitator for her health board, and she created and led the Balint Group Programme for Foundation Doctors in her hospital. These are regular spaces for healthcare professionals to speak about real issues that affect their well-being amongst colleagues to improve mutual support and camaraderie in the workplace. She also holds qualifications in Life Coaching and healthcare leadership and management. Whatever your reason for joining us on this podcast, we are glad you have taken the time. 

Dr Melany McKenna is a Clinical Psychologist, Cognitive Analytic Therapy practitioner, and Executive Coach. With a specialist interest in staff wellbeing, and supporting NHS professionals, Dr McKenna offers psychologically informed reflections, prompting us to consider staff wellbeing from a systemic perspective.

If you are having stressful days at work, leaving you feeling demotivated, and depleted, I'm hoping I can help here.

PODCAST DESCRIPTION

SafeSpace is a new grounding and respite podcast aimed at Healthcare Professionals focused on staff wellbeing in the healthcare work environment, a grossly overlooked issue and yet, the cornerstone of the healthcare system which is why it is crumbling. There are 3 components to the podcast:  

- Candid interviews with healthcare leaders, and a wide variety of passionate healthcare professionals about their own experiences and struggles with their well-being as they have progressed through their careers  

- Reflective discussions with a clinical psychologist, my co-host, regarding key topics that have arisen such as coping with bullying, depression, burnout, grief, menopause, etc  

- Guided meditations specific to the healthcare worker getting ready for the day ahead, pausing during, winding down, and accepting following the working day.  

This podcast is not a panacea or substitute for a formal management plan, but a motivating, and catharsis tool to help during a stressful day.

In this episode, Mariam engages in a thought-provoking conversation with Dr. Ian Happs, a seasoned GP with a remarkable 30-year career. Dr. Happs shares his journey into medicine, highlighting his passion for patient interaction and the evolution of primary care over the decades. He reflects on the changing responsibilities of GPs, the impact of societal mobility on patient relationships, and the importance of curiosity and holistic care in medical practice. The discussion also delves into Dr. Happs's contributions to global health initiatives, particularly in Lesotho, and his experiences during the COVID-19 pandemic.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• A passion for working with people and a desire to help others led to a career in medicine, with a specific focus on general practice due to the appeal of being a generalist and maintaining patient contact across various conditions.
• Over the years, primary care has evolved significantly, with GPs now having less direct responsibility for out-of-hours care and a shift towards more specialized roles within healthcare, which has impacted the continuity of care and the personal relationships between GPs and patients.
• In training future GPs, fostering curiosity and good listening skills is essential. This approach encourages doctors to engage deeply with their patients and avoid making assumptions based on past interactions.
• A strong belief in a global community drives involvement in global health initiatives, emphasizing the importance of understanding diverse healthcare practices and learning from international colleagues, particularly in resource-limited settings.
• Working in general practice can be emotionally taxing due to the intimate nature of patient relationships and the shared experiences of pain and loss. Healthcare professionals must find ways to cope with these emotional challenges to maintain their well-being.

BEST MOMENTS

"I think my favourite word talking to trainees is a curiosity because I think we need, as doctors, as GPs particularly, you need to be interested in your patients and you need to be curious."

"I think there are, not necessarily inappropriately, but there are roles that have been taken off the GP by other primary care people and that's changed the role."

"I think fundamentally I believe very strongly and passionately in a global community. I think the world is a small, fragile and increasingly interconnected place."

"So I feel like there's been a shift from that family physician type role to more of a local GP role of moving as and when it suits the career of the doctor."

"I think general practice is a huge privilege... people let you into the most important, meaningful, sometimes the happiest, but also the most painful times of their lives."

HOST BIO

Mariam is a GP trainee in Wales passionate about improving our healthcare colleagues' wellbeing. She has experience on the Schwartz Round Steering group and as a facilitator for her health board, and she created and led the Balint Group Programme for Foundation Doctors in her hospital. These are regular spaces for healthcare professionals to speak about real issues that affect their well-being amongst colleagues to improve mutual support and camaraderie in the workplace. She also holds qualifications in Life Coaching and healthcare leadership and management. Whatever your reason for joining us on this podcast, we are glad you have taken the time. 

Dr Melany McKenna is a Clinical Psychologist, Cognitive Analytic Therapy practitioner, and Executive Coach. With a specialist interest in staff wellbeing, and supporting NHS professionals, Dr McKenna offers psychologically informed reflections, prompting us to consider staff wellbeing from a systemic perspective.

If you are having stressful days at work, leaving you feeling demotivated, and depleted, I'm hoping I can help here.

PODCAST DESCRIPTION

SafeSpace is a new grounding and respite podcast aimed at Healthcare Professionals focused on staff wellbeing in the healthcare work environment, a grossly overlooked issue and yet, the cornerstone of the healthcare system which is why it is crumbling. There are 3 components to the podcast:  

- Candid interviews with healthcare leaders, and a wide variety of passionate healthcare professionals about their own experiences and struggles with their well-being as they have progressed through their careers  

- Reflective discussions with a clinical psychologist, my co-host, regarding key topics that have arisen such as coping with bullying, depression, burnout, grief, menopause, etc  

- Guided meditations specific to the healthcare worker getting ready for the day ahead, pausing during, winding down, and accepting following the working day.  

This podcast is not a panacea or substitute for a formal management plan, but a motivating, and catharsis tool to help during a stressful day.

In this episode, Melany guides listeners through the 5-4-3-2-1 grounding technique, a simple yet effective exercise designed to help individuals become present and manage stress, especially during busy shifts or transitions between work and home. The technique involves a series of sensory observations: identifying five things you can see, four things you can feel, three things you can hear, two things you can smell, and one thing you can taste. Melany encourages listeners to engage deeply with their surroundings, describing each sensory experience in detail to foster mindfulness and relaxation.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• This exercise is designed to help individuals become present and can be used during busy shifts or as a transition between work and home.
• The technique involves identifying and describing five things you can see, four things you can feel, three things you can hear, two things you can smell, and one thing you can taste.
• When identifying items, it's important to describe them in detail, considering aspects like color, size, movement, and texture to enhance mindfulness.
• Participants are encouraged to close their eyes or gently fix their gaze downwards when identifying feelings, which can help in focusing on the sensations.
• The exercise allows for variations, such as imagining tastes or acknowledging the absence of certain smells or tastes, making it adaptable to different environments and situations.

BEST MOMENTS

"This is a great short exercise that you can easily pick up in the middle of a busy shift if you need a quick pause."

"For each thing, describe them in detail. Pay close attention. What color are they? Are they big or small?"

"Just try and identify and describe to yourself three things that you can hear."

"Take a moment to notice two things you can smell right now. Could be a smell of the room or the aroma of food wafting from nearby."

"Identify one thing you can taste. It might be gum that you're chewing, or the flavor of food and drink you had earlier."

HOST BIO

Mariam is a GP trainee in Wales passionate about improving our healthcare colleagues' wellbeing. She has experience on the Schwartz Round Steering group and as a facilitator for her health board, and she created and led the Balint Group Programme for Foundation Doctors in her hospital. These are regular spaces for healthcare professionals to speak about real issues that affect their well-being amongst colleagues to improve mutual support and camaraderie in the workplace. She also holds qualifications in Life Coaching and healthcare leadership and management. Whatever your reason for joining us on this podcast, we are glad you have taken the time. 

Dr Melany McKenna is a Clinical Psychologist, Cognitive Analytic Therapy practitioner, and Executive Coach. With a specialist interest in staff wellbeing, and supporting NHS professionals, Dr McKenna offers psychologically informed reflections, prompting us to consider staff wellbeing from a systemic perspective.

If you are having stressful days at work, leaving you feeling demotivated, and depleted, I'm hoping I can help here.

PODCAST DESCRIPTION

SafeSpace is a new grounding and respite podcast aimed at Healthcare Professionals focused on staff wellbeing in the healthcare work environment, a grossly overlooked issue and yet, the cornerstone of the healthcare system which is why it is crumbling. There are 3 components to the podcast:  

- Candid interviews with healthcare leaders, and a wide variety of passionate healthcare professionals about their own experiences and struggles with their well-being as they have progressed through their careers  

- Reflective discussions with a clinical psychologist, my co-host, regarding key topics that have arisen such as coping with bullying, depression, burnout, grief, menopause, etc  

- Guided meditations specific to the healthcare worker getting ready for the day ahead, pausing during, winding down, and accepting following the working day.  

This podcast is not a panacea or substitute for a formal management plan, but a motivating, and catharsis tool to help during a stressful day.

In the episode hosts Mariam and Melany McKenna engage in a heartfelt discussion reflecting on their experiences during the COVID-19 pandemic, inspired by an interview with Dr. Harsha Reddy. They explore themes of resilience, compassion, and the emotional toll faced by healthcare professionals in the NHS. The conversation highlights Dr. Reddy's authentic approach to addressing complaints and fostering change, as well as the importance of empathy in the healthcare environment. Mariam and Melany share their challenges during the pandemic, including the struggles of balancing work and family life while witnessing the hardships faced by patients and colleagues.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• The discussion highlights the significance of compassion and empathy in the healthcare environment, emphasizing the need for professionals to respect and understand the experiences of others, regardless of their background or status.
• Both hosts reflect on the profound mental health challenges faced by healthcare workers during the COVID-19 pandemic, illustrating how the trauma of witnessing suffering and loss has lasting effects on individuals in the profession.
• There is a concern that the appreciation for healthcare workers, which peaked during the pandemic with public applause, has diminished post-COVID, leading to feelings of frustration and neglect among staff who continue to work hard under challenging conditions.
• The conversation notes a positive shift in the healthcare culture regarding mental health awareness, with more openness and willingness to discuss emotional well-being among colleagues.
• Sharing personal stories and experiences is portrayed as a powerful tool for healing and connection, helping individuals feel less isolated in their struggles and fostering a sense of community among healthcare workers.

BEST MOMENTS

"I appreciated that courage... his openness was so refreshing and I felt like we broke new uncharted territory."

"He talked about the complaint... his ability to kind of shelve that instinctive response and be able to put himself in that other person's shoes."

"We lost 500 years worth of nursing experience in the 12 months post-COVID."

"It just feels like it potentially has been also quickly forgotten post-COVID."

"A burden shared is a burden halved. If I was ever to get a quote tattooed, that would be it."

HOST BIO

Mariam is a GP trainee in Wales passionate about improving our healthcare colleagues' wellbeing. She has experience on the Schwartz Round Steering group and as a facilitator for her health board, and she created and led the Balint Group Programme for Foundation Doctors in her hospital. These are regular spaces for healthcare professionals to speak about real issues that affect their well-being amongst colleagues to improve mutual support and camaraderie in the workplace. She also holds qualifications in Life Coaching and healthcare leadership and management. Whatever your reason for joining us on this podcast, we are glad you have taken the time. 

Dr Melany McKenna is a Clinical Psychologist, Cognitive Analytic Therapy practitioner, and Executive Coach. With a specialist interest in staff wellbeing, and supporting NHS professionals, Dr McKenna offers psychologically informed reflections, prompting us to consider staff wellbeing from a systemic perspective.

If you are having stressful days at work, leaving you feeling demotivated, and depleted, I'm hoping I can help here.

PODCAST DESCRIPTION

SafeSpace is a new grounding and respite podcast aimed at Healthcare Professionals focused on staff wellbeing in the healthcare work environment, a grossly overlooked issue and yet, the cornerstone of the healthcare system which is why it is crumbling. There are 3 components to the podcast:  

- Candid interviews with healthcare leaders, and a wide variety of passionate healthcare professionals about their own experiences and struggles with their well-being as they have progressed through their careers  

- Reflective discussions with a clinical psychologist, my co-host, regarding key topics that have arisen such as coping with bullying, depression, burnout, grief, menopause, etc  

- Guided meditations specific to the healthcare worker getting ready for the day ahead, pausing during, winding down, and accepting following the working day.  

This podcast is not a panacea or substitute for a formal management plan, but a motivating, and catharsis tool to help during a stressful day.

In this episode, Mariam engages in a thought-provoking conversation with Dr. Harsha Reddy, a consultant in intensive care medicine and a dedicated advocate for staff wellbeing in the healthcare sector. Dr. Reddy shares his journey into medicine, inspired by his father's legacy, and discusses the challenges and rewards of working in intensive care, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. The episode delves into the importance of resilience and mental health for healthcare professionals, highlighting initiatives like the Acute Intervention Team and wellbeing sessions that aim to support staff. Dr. Reddy reflects on the evolving culture within the NHS, the significance of allyship, and the need for a more compassionate workplace. With insights into the ongoing mental health crisis among healthcare workers.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• The conversation highlights the increasing recognition of staff wellbeing as essential for the survival of the healthcare system, especially in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic.
• A strong sense of teamwork and understanding among colleagues is emphasized as crucial for maintaining morale and resilience in high-pressure environments like intensive care units.
• There is a strong advocacy for a culture of civility and respect in healthcare settings, with a focus on addressing bullying and fostering supportive relationships among staff.
• The discussion points to the significant mental health challenges faced by healthcare workers, including PTSD and burnout, and the necessity for structured support systems like Schwartz Rounds and wellbeing champions.
• The importance of allyship and recognizing privilege in the workplace is underscored, with a call to action for creating a more inclusive environment for all healthcare professionals, particularly for international medical graduates and women in medicine.

BEST MOMENTS

"I think it's the challenge. I love the variety. No two days are the same. I meet some amazing people... being able to help them when they were at their most vulnerable, that's an absolute privilege."

"During COVID, we made sure that there were doctors and nurses who were like COVID champions or wellbeing champions who would keep an eye out for staff who they thought might be struggling."

"I was ashamed that I came to this rather late... COVID kind of lifted the lid on it."

"I feel like this should be the baseline for all healthcare workers... these Time to Talk sessions would be so helpful to everyone if we could mold that time."

"There's zero tolerance for rude behavior at work... manage it, and be civil."

HOST BIO

Mariam is a GP trainee in Wales passionate about improving our healthcare colleagues' wellbeing. She has experience on the Schwartz Round Steering group and as a facilitator for her health board, and she created and led the Balint Group Programme for Foundation Doctors in her hospital. These are regular spaces for healthcare professionals to speak about real issues that affect their well-being amongst colleagues to improve mutual support and camaraderie in the workplace. She also holds qualifications in Life Coaching and healthcare leadership and management. Whatever your reason for joining us on this podcast, we are glad you have taken the time. 

Dr Melany McKenna is a Clinical Psychologist, Cognitive Analytic Therapy practitioner, and Executive Coach. With a specialist interest in staff wellbeing, and supporting NHS professionals, Dr McKenna offers psychologically informed reflections, prompting us to consider staff wellbeing from a systemic perspective.

If you are having stressful days at work, leaving you feeling demotivated, and depleted, I'm hoping I can help here.

PODCAST DESCRIPTION

SafeSpace is a new grounding and respite podcast aimed at Healthcare Professionals focused on staff wellbeing in the healthcare work environment, a grossly overlooked issue and yet, the cornerstone of the healthcare system which is why it is crumbling. There are 3 components to the podcast:  

- Candid interviews with healthcare leaders, and a wide variety of passionate healthcare professionals about their own experiences and struggles with their well-being as they have progressed through their careers  

- Reflective discussions with a clinical psychologist, my co-host, regarding key topics that have arisen such as coping with bullying, depression, burnout, grief, menopause, etc  

- Guided meditations specific to the healthcare worker getting ready for the day ahead, pausing during, winding down, and accepting following the working day.  

This podcast is not a panacea or substitute for a formal management plan, but a motivating, and catharsis tool to help during a stressful day.